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Windows 7: Need to reinstall Window 7

My desktop computer crashed, wiping out the MBR for Windows 7. I have lost the installation disk but have the OEM serial number. The guy who built my computer died a couple of years ago, so I can't get another dopy from him, however, I do have the ISO on my backup drive. I entered my serial number on the Digital River website and they told me to seek support from the original OEM manufacturer. Not possible, obviously. I have (had?) a dual boot system with XP, but XP no longer lets me do much. I can't even move a file from one place to another, so there's no way to copy it to a flash drive using Windows XP. So here's my question.

Is there a way to copy a large file like an ISO from one drive (a backup partition on the same computer) to a flash drive without entering either XP or Windows 7 (which can't be booted anyway)?

Failing that, is there a safe place to buy and download Windows 7 without paying through the nose?

Getting to the ISO file on your backup drive might depend on how you backed up the file. If it is inside an image file, that might be a bit harder. If it is a simple copy of the original ISO file, then (using another computer) you can download an operating system that is small enough to fit on a CD or DVD - then boot the non-working computer to that CD/DVD and copy most any file that you want.

If you want a full operating system, you can download something like Linux Mint. I would opt for the 32 bit version because it will load quicker from the DVD.

If you do not want a full operating system, you can download any of the "rescue disks" from antivirus companies.

Hopefully, the info above answers your question about getting to the ISO file. However, other forum members might be able to walk you thru repairing the MBR without the ISO file.

As you have an Iso, copy it to a USB (min 16GB) devise and your good to go

You need to go into your Bios options and select USB as your primary boot option.
THEN

SHUTDOWN >PLUG in your USB > Restart> it should then use your external media as a new installation version.

Your Validation key which you should NOT have told anybody should be either on the side of your comp or on the box from which your "guy" set up your comp.
If you do not have either of the above then you will have to use a key finder programme.
IT IS NOT the one shown on your system details am i activated screen.
>>>>>> do this first or you will not ba able to activate your install <<<<<<<<<<<

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